Robert Irwin threatens to renounce US citizenship over Margot Robbie’s Oscar snub

Robert Irwin has threatened to renounce his US citizenship after fellow Queenslander Margot Robbie missed out on an Oscar nomination for her role in Barbie.

Wildlife warrior Robert Irwin has threatened to renounce his US citizenship, following the Oscar snub of fellow Queenslander Margot Robbie for her role in “Barbie.”

Irwin, 20, expressed his disbelief and frustration on The Project on Wednesday night after the news broke earlier in the day that Robbie did not receive a nomination for ‘Best Actress’ for her role in ‘Barbie’ at this year’s Academy Awards.

Ryan Gosling has spoken out about how disappointed he is that Greta Gerwig and Margot Robbie were not nominated for two key Oscars after the Barbie movie became the world's highest-grossing film of 2023. pic.twitter.com/BZo5qXyV6P

— The Project (@theprojecttv) January 24, 2024

“That’s ridiculous. Come on,” he exclaimed, emphasising the pivotal roles of Robbie and director Greta Gerwig in the success of “Barbie,” the highest-grossing film of 2023.

“Greta and Margot made that movie. That’s the reason why we have the Barbie movie, that’s ridiculous,” he said.

The Academy’s decision has been met with widespread shock and accusations of sexism, particularly as Ryan Gosling, who portrayed Ken, received a Best Actor nomination.

Robert Irwin has threatened to renounce his US citizenship, following the Oscar snub of fellow Queenslander Margot Robbie for her role in “Barbie.” Photo: Network Ten.

Margot Robbie attends Barbie’s European premiere in London. Picture: Gareth Cattermole/Getty Images

This discrepancy prompted Irwin to echo fan sentiments, stating, “there’s no Ken without Barbie.”

The conversation took a dramatic turn when co-host Waleed Aly asked if Irwin would consider renouncing his American citizenship over this perceived injustice.

“I think it only makes sense,” Irwin replied.

Irwin obtained his US citizenship through his US-born mother, Terri Irwin.

Co-host Sarah Harris pointed out the irony, given the feminist themes of “Barbie.”

“Isn’t this proving the movie’s point?” she asked.

Robert Irwin discusses the Oscars snub with other panel members. Picture: Network Ten.

Despite the snub for Best Actress and Best Director, Barbie is still in the Oscar race for Best Picture, which includes Robbie as a producer, America Ferrera as Best Supporting Actress, and the film’s musical number “I’m Just Ken” is also up for an award.

Robbie has been previously recognised by the Academy with nominations for “I, Tonya” and “Bombshell.”

Irwin’s bold statement reflects a growing sentiment among movie enthusiasts and industry insiders, questioning the Academy’s selection process and highlighting the ongoing struggle for gender parity in Hollywood.

Can you feel the kenergy? Robert Irwin and his girlfriend Rorie Buckey doing their best Ken and Barbie impersonation Picture Instagram @robertirwin

Irwin, along with girlfriend Rorie Buckey even dressed up as the iconic plastic duo for Halloween in 2023.

“Can you feel the kenergy?” the Instagram post read.